New must-haves for JFK collectors are heading to auction, and the winning bidder will be able to act — and look — just like the 35th president.
Our friends at Alexander Historical Auctions say that they are offering up his presidential flag and a smaller version that flew on his limo. And they also have the shirt he wore during his inauguration when he said, “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”
During the two-day online auction that begins Monday, the “presidential standard” flag, used at official JFK events, is expected to fetch up to $80,000. The limo flag could go for as much as $35,000.
They were presents from Kennedy’s successor, Lyndon B. Johnson, to the late retired Navy Cmdr. Ronald L. Jackson, who operated the White House Mess and food service on Air Force One and Camp David for every president from LBJ to George H. W. Bush.
“It is likely that Jackson received this flag from Johnson after he commissioned his own set of presidential flags upon assuming the presidency, as is standard practice. Although the flags of former presidents are intended to be turned over to the National Archives, a small number have instead been given as gifts to individuals close to the president and remain in private hands,” said the auction house.
The custom-tailored white linen shirt, monogrammed “J.F.K.” in red thread, is expected to sell for up to $12,000. Alexander Historical Auctions said, “A very evocative relic, appropriately representing the notably image-conscious Kennedy.”
Alexander Historical Auctions has offered historical items and autographs for years. Its latest auction includes autographs of 53 of 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, including a rare Thomas Lynch Jr.
